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How to Create Ultra-High-Res Still Life Images Using Pixel Shift Pixel shift is an ideal technique for fine art still life photography, where every element of texture, light, and detail matters

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Thinking of taking your fine art still life photography further? Fujifilm's pixel shift functionality can be a powerful tool for this genre, as it allows you to create images with extreme detail, color accuracy, and high resolution.

Pixel Shift Multi-Shot works by moving the camera’s sensor in very small increments (usually by a single pixel) between multiple exposures. These exposures are then combined into one high-resolution image. The key advantage is that it delivers more color and detail than a single image, providing a greater level of sharpness and dynamic range.

Here are some tips on using Pixel Shift Multi-Shot effectively for creating fine art still life photos.

A rustic table with assorted dishes, fresh fruits, vegetables, a candle, and a bowl of money in the center.

Photo 2022 © Nivi Shaham | FUJIFILM X-H2 and FUJINON XF33mmF1.4 R LM WR, 1/25 sec at F11, ISO 400

Set Up Your Still Life Scene

Ensure your still life setup is stable. This is critical since any movement between images can result in misalignment in the final image.

Use a sturdy tripod to keep your camera stationary during the image, and FUJIFILM XApp’s remote shutter release or a timer to avoid camera shake.

Photo 2023 © Claire Rosen | FUJIFILM GFX100S and FUJINON GF30mmF5.6 T/S, 1/160 sec at F16, ISO 200

Activate Pixel Shift Mode

Pixel shift functionality is typically found in GFX System cameras, as well as a few X Series cameras such as FUJIFILM X-H2.

To enter this mode, press the Drive button, then choose Pixel Shift Multi-Shot.

Choose the Right Settings

When making images in Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode, you’ll likely want to choose a few settings to ensure optimal results:

Aperture: Use a smaller aperture like F8 or F11 if depth-of-field, as maximal optical sharpness is desired.
ISO: Keep ISO low (eg ISO 100 or 200) to minimize noise.
Shutter Speed: If using a tripod and remote shutter release, shutter speed shouldn’t be a concern.

A long table outdoors covered with assorted fruits, including watermelon slices, peaches, and grapes, on a white tablecloth.

Post-Processing

With the steps above completed, all you need to do is release the shutter once. Then, you’re ready to combine.

Fujifilm’s free Pixel Shift Combiner software is specifically designed to combine the multiple exposures taken using the Pixel Shift Multi-Shot feature on cameras like FUJIFILM GFX100S II. The software aligns the individual frames and merges them into a single high-resolution image.

Final Touches

Once your image is merged and enhanced, you can apply final edits, like adjusting contrast, exposure, or color. Pixel shift images contain a lot of information, so you’ll find a professional look the moment it’s been combined, but plenty of creative freedom in post-production when preferred.